Pineapple Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Scientific Name: Ananas comosus

What is Pineapple?

Pineapple is a fruit plant native to South America, likely the countries of Paraguay, Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela. Its botanical name is Ananas comosus and it is part of the Bromeliaceae family, which includes over 2000 different plant species. 1

Indians eventually began to distribute and cultivate pineapple in the Caribbean where it grew in popularity. When Christopher Columbus arrived in North America, pineapple began to be shipped back to Europe. This is due to one of the primary pineapple uses of preventing scurvy aboard ships, but also because of its juicey and tropical taste. 1

Pineapple is now produced worldwide because of its drought-tolerant nature. While Thailand is today’s largest producer of pineapple, it is a staple in many diets around the world. Pineapple has a low calorie-count with only 82 calories per 1 cup serving. 1, 2

Pineapple Health Uses and Health Benefits

Pineapple health benefits include having plenty of nutritional value such as being over 100% of the daily recommended vitamin C intake. It is also a good source of manganese, potassium, copper, vitamin B6, B5 and B1, fiber and folate. Among its ingredients, pineapple is one of the only sources of bromelain, a substance that contains protein-digesting enzymes. 2,3

Pineapple health benefits include:

Indigestion relief including pineapple for heartburn

Allergy relief

Antioxidants like vitamin C for immune boosting

Protection against macular degeneration

High source of fiber for healthy digestion

Fertility support

Prevention against cardiovascular disease

Anti-cancer properties from bromelain content

Anti-inflammatory for joint and muscle pain

The broad range of pineapple health benefits make it an important and versatile fruit for preventing and combating different conditions. Here are some of the top pineapple uses for treating conditions and ailments:

Ulcerative Colitis - The bromelain content in pineapple can help to support and ease digestion which is necessary for those suffering from ulcerative colitis.

Genital Warts - In addition to antioxidants for immune support, pineapple health benefits also include certain enzymes that can break down genital warts and strengthen skin health.

Osteoporosis - With natural potassium content, pineapple can help to increase bone density, which can protect against osteoporosis.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Pineapple has many anti-inflammatory benefits, including bromelain, which can help break down protein and reduce swelling from carpal tunnel syndrome.

Heartburn - Pineapple for heartburn can be helpful in preventing and treating this condition by helping to break down proteins.

Pineapple Side Effects and Precautions

There are limited pineapple side effects as it is generally not an allergy-causing fruit. However, it does have a high vitamin C content. An extremely high intake of vitamin C can cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as well as possible headaches and abdominal pain.

Other pineapple side effects include its possible negative interactions with certain blood thinners, antidepressants or medications for insomnia.